Flexural Properties of Thin-Walled Specimens with Square Hollow Sections 3D Printed from ABS Reinforced with Aramid Fibers

Abstract

This article studies the flexural behavior of thin-walled specimens with square hollow sections fabricated using fused deposition modeling (FDM). The specimens were 3D printed from an ABS filament reinforced with aramid fibers. Four wall thicknesses were analyzed. The strength data were collected during three-point flexural tests. There are visible, clear differences in the flexural properties between the X- or Y-oriented specimens and those printed in the Z direction, and they vary up to 70%. It was also found that the flexural strength was dependent on the G-codes controlling the print head’s motion, path, and position. For specimens with a thickness up to 1.4 mm, the infill pattern was linear, whereas 1.8 mm and 2 mm specimens needed a stitch, which had some negative effects on the strength properties.